Critabianca
Salento tradition.
Combine the elegance of a historic stone villa and impressive antique furniture, and the casual nature of local farmers and you have Critabianca–a fourteenth century masseria (farm house) with a story to tell. The hotel sits on five hectares of countryside off the beaten path in the heel of Italy’s boot, and undiscovered to many. It is a treasure to the Ghione family of Torino, who own and operate it personally.
The Ghiones have created a place for guests to come to feel at home. They invite guests to have authentic experiences and welcome them to this lesser known part of Italy in a warm and intimate way. The location of the masseria is perfect for day trips as it takes under an hour by car, to reach many worthwhile destinations such as the beaches of Gallipoli, the well known southern Italian baroque capital of Lecce, and the beloved Otranto, located at the very tip of the heel.
The structure.
This area of Salento is historically known for its ceramics, which is where the name “Critabianca” came from. In the local dialect, crita means clay and bianca, you can imagine, means white. For generations, locals have been creating these ceramics in soft white tones and now you might imagine where the inspiration for the decor of Critabianca has come from. The six double rooms are subtly unique but all follow the monochromatic palette of cream and stone. Minimal decor of white linens, vases, and dark wood antique furnishings adorn the home and play up the beauty of the architecture itself. Glass floors in the Architect’s suite allow viewing of the historic ruins of the home’s past.
Food.
Straight from the garden and totally Salento. Critabianca is a lovely place to be if you want to experience the slow food of southern Italy, specifically of Salento. Picture breakfast of fresh artisanal bread, sweet cakes, focaccia, and cheese from the neighboring farmers sheep. Lunch and dinner is often supplied by the local fisherman from a nearby sea village and vegetables from the garden. Don’t forget to drizzle it all with the olive oil made from the local groves.
Good things to know
There are so many experiences to be had when visiting Critabianca, but we recommend grabbing one of the bikes and taking a ride through the magnificent countryside. As well, there are so many stories to be told about the land. We’ll leave them to the Ghione’s to tell but let’s just say, pirates, Turks, olive oil, and stolen bread to peak your curiosity.
Be aware that Critabianca is wonderful for older families, but they are not organized to accommodate children below 12.
Good Trips perks
Welcome "aperitivo" with Prosecco and Salentinian appetizers
Use promo code GOODTRIPS at booking
At a glance
Location: Salento, Italy
Price: from €220
Rooms: 6
Nearest Airport: Brindisi (BDS)
Arrive by: car
Open: April – October
Sustainability in practice
Critabianca is steeped in local tradition and culture and invites you to join them in celebrating Salentinian history. The Ghione family prioritized preserving the history of the 14th century masseria. The family partners with many locals who have been working their crafts for generations in the Puglian countryside. Get ready for organic meals made with ingredients from the garden and neighboring artisans, prepared in the way only those of Salento can.
Constructed with local/natural materials
Preservation of the original architecture
Antique / locally made furniture
Locally made art
Ecological / organic food & wine
0KM food / organic garden
Supports local community and economy
Use promo code GOODTRIPS for special perks.
We think you’ll also like…
